I have often been drawn to a city or beach town because I wanted to experience a specific hotel… this was the case with the stunning Viceroy in Bali (monkeys tapping on my window!) and Fanari Villas in Santorini (that sunset!). So here is a bucket list of beautiful hotels that are currently on my radar. Happy daydreaming!

Jade Mountain, St Lucia

Set amid a jungle on a high hill top, this stunning architectural wonder in the south of St Lucia is majestic. Each room is accessible by its own little wooden bridge and once you’re inside, get ready to pick your jaw off the floor. One wall is completely open to nature, so birds will fly in and out of the room, and a private jacuzzi or infinity pool juts out into the fresh air. Many of the rooms overlook the famous Pitons mountains. It’s honeymoon heaven.

Giraffe Manor, Nairobi

This hotel is run by a couple who fell in love with Kenya. Hugged by vines, the beautiful brick home with red tiled roof has a colonial vibe to it. The main attraction is that giraffes hang out right outside and often stick their heads in the windows to say hello. They even pass by the cocktail hour on the terrace every day. This looks like a super fun place for a family with young children.

Jumeirah Naseem, Dubai

I’ve always had a soft spot for this Dubai-based hotel chain and loved visiting Jumeirah hotels in London and NY (when they had the Essex House). The newest entrant to their portfolio is a lovely, sprawling hotel right next to the Burj Al Arab. I dropped by to have a coffee (with Burj and sea views!) and marvel at the undulating layout, Emirati-inspired architecture and beautiful art. My favorite is the metallic calligraphy behind the reception desk in the lobby.

Explora Patagonia, Chile

I’ve always wanted to see more of South America – the ranches of Argentina, the white salt plains of Bolivia, the vibrant dance scene in Colombia – and none seem more exotic than staying at the edge of the Earth surrounded by glaciers. Located inside the Torres del Paine National Park, Explora Patagonia hotel hugs a lake and has waterfall views. And its all-inclusive package includes horse back riding. Just… wow!

Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, Finland

This one has been on my wish list for years. I’d love the chance to see the green Northern lights from an igloo-inspired glass room. The architecture of the hotel – with each room as a private suite complete – and the fairytale setting makes this a must-see on my list.

Constance Le Prince Maurice, Mauritius

Spread across 60 hectares of completely unspoiled private land, Constance Le Prince Maurice is a wonderland of tropical gardens and nodding palm trees by the sea. Foodies can enjoy various cuisines in restaurants scattered on this island. I’ve got my eye on Le Barachois, pictured above: a unique seafood restaurant comprising of five decks, floating among the natural fish reserve, accessible only via a wooden pathway.

Hotel Design Secret de Paris

One of my favourite cities in the world… I would be happy staying in a box under a staircase as long as its in the city of love. Yes, the fancy hotel chains do a fantastic job in Paris (Le Royal Monceau Raffles, Mandarin Oriental Paris and Plaza Athenee are standouts for me), but I also really like the vibe of this trendy, design oriented hotel tucked in the flashier side of Paris near the Pigalle district. Each room is modeled around a different theme – Eiffel Tower, Moulin Rouge, Artists Chambers – and this one, after the Opera Garnier, is the one on my radar.

Out of the Blue Capsis Elite: Crete

I grew up in Greece and love everything about it. Mykonos is popular for its party atmosphere, while couples love Santorini for those sweeping sunset views, but Crete is one of my favourite islands because it’s got a little of everything. This is an all-suite hotel with private infinity pools and sea views that go on for ages. I wish I could live like this.

Villa D’Este, Lake Como

We had lunch here during a trip to Lake Como and it felt like visiting a palace. It was formerly a summer home of a British princess. The manicured gardens and pool jutting out into the lake make this former royal estate a destination in and of itself. I’d love to see the rooms and try some of the restaurants for dinner.

VIVANTA by Taj, Sri Lanka

Beautiful beaches, elephant orphanages and a nearby visit to a UNESCO world heritage site? Sign me up. I had visited Sri Lanka in the past and fell in love with the delicious seafood curries, warmth of the people and amazing tea blends. I’d love to go back and try this hotspot.

COMO Cocoa Island, Maldives

Only four hours away from bustling Dubai is a haven of peace and quiet. I’ve wanted to visit the Maldives ever since I moved to Dubai. I have extensively researched all the beautiful hotels dotted along the islands and have zeroed in on the COMO group, which has two stunning hotels that offer the epitome of relaxed elegance. Ultimate wish list!

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About Us

Hi, we're the Hamdan sisters! Sara is a professional travel writer whose work has appeared in the NY Times, CNN Travel, Stylist and Harper's Bazaar. Lulu works in healthcare marketing and loves all things nutrition and fitness. The sisters run this blog to share a love of beautiful hotels that make life a little extraordinary for a day or two. Who doesn't love chocolates on their pillows?